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A podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Rooted in the Restoration Movement

Featured Book

When Church Stops Working: A Future for Your Congregation beyond More Money, Programs, and Innovation

What if the solution for the decline of today’s church isn’t more money, people, programs, innovation, or busyness?

What if the answer is to stop and wait on God?

In When Church Stops Working, ministry leaders Andrew Root and Blair Bertrand show how actively watching and listening for God can bring life out of death for churches in crisis today. Using clear steps and practices, they invite church leaders to stop the endless cycle of doing more and rather to simply “be” in God’s presence. They tell the story of two congregations who did this–and found new life in the process.

When Church Stops Working distills the core themes of Root’s critically acclaimed Ministry in a Secular Age series in a more accessible form. Leaders and churchgoers who are burned out and hopeless will experience affirmation, encouragement, and empowerment as Root and Bertrand turn to the book of Acts as well as examples from contemporary congregational life to show what “active” waiting looks like and the saving grace it can hold.

About the Show

Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro got its start the summer of 2020. Ryan, a former student of Brian’s at Lincoln Christian College, called Brian to discuss a theology book he was reading. That sparked a two-hour conversation, and the idea that others might also be interested in talking about these topics. Brian called his office “The Bistro” while he was teaching at LCC, because he wanted it to be a place of discourse and conversation. It is that same idea that Ryan and Brian are bringing to this podcast. They discuss the Bible, theology, and all things related to the christian life and have a bit of fun while doing it. Join them every Tuesday in the Bistro and learn more about your faith.

Meet the Hosts

Ryan Sarver

Ryan was a student of Brian’s at Lincoln Christian College almost twenty years ago — not a good student, but a student nonetheless. He graduated with a degree in worship ministry and worked in the local church for several years. Now, Ryan owns and operates a video production and marketing company, telling stories for non-profits and businesses.  

Ryan loves reading books on theology and engaging in conversations. He and his wife, Lauren, share two children and live in the Indianapolis area. One of his claims-to-fame is making the best popcorn ever — just ask his kids.

Ryan’s favorite movie is The Tree of Life. He enjoys all kinds of ethnic foods, as well as pour-over coffee — keep your K-cups to yourself 🙂

Brian Johnson

Brian loves to teach the Bible, and he also loves a great cup of coffee! His students always appreciate his ability to make difficult concepts relatable. They also appreciate his sense of humor — well … most of the time. Throughout his career, Brian has taught all kinds of students in church, college, and seminary, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Brian really enjoys traveling, especially when there are good hikes and camping along the way. He shares those adventures with his wife, Josanne. Josanne and Brian have three children and one daughter-in-law.

Brian’s favorite movie of all time is Casablanca. He likes all kinds of food — no wonder he called his office “The Bistro.”

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